Archive 2012

A Media Release from the Premier of Victoria. (3 April 2012)

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional and Rural Development Peter Ryan today announced $2 million from the Victorian Coalition Government to extend the Great Southern Rail Trail from Foster to Welshpool.

Speaking at Toora today, Mr Ryan said the Great Southern Rail Trail Extension Project would add more than 18 kms to the popular tourist attraction and further showcase the natural beauty of the region.

"The project will link four communities in the Corners Inlet Tourism Precinct and create a wonderful recreational and tourism experience for both locals and visitors," Mr Ryan said.

"Given the popularity of the current 49 km trail from Leongatha to Foster, the addition of Toora, Agnes and Welshpool to the trail is expected to provide a significant economic boost for the region."

Mr Ryan said the Great Southern Rail Trail Extension Project would include three sections:

Section 1: Foster to Toora involving construction of 8.6 km of trail, with four bridges and associated infrastructure including signage, safety crossings, seating and bike parking.

Section 2: Toora to Agnes involving construction of 4.54 km of trail, with three bridges and associated infrastructure.

Section 3: Agnes to Welshpool involving construction of 5.33 km of trail, with five bridges and infrastructure.

Mr Ryan said the $2.9 million extension project included $900,000 from the South Gippsland Shire Council and $2 million from the Coalition Government's $1 billion Regional Growth Fund.

"The Regional Growth Fund is the Coalition's flagship regional development initiative, specifically designed to support jobs, growth and prosperity in regional and rural Victoria," Mr Ryan said.